CSIR-CMERI Unveils Groundbreaking 'Made in India' CSIR PRIMA ET11 Electric Tractor for Small Farmers

In a remarkable stride towards sustainable agriculture and a greener future, the Council of Scientific and Industrial Research - Central Mechanical Engineering Research Institute (CSIR-CMERI) has introduced the CSIR PRIMA ET11, a compact, 100% electric tractor designed to cater specifically to India's small and marginal farmers. This innovation is set to transform the landscape of Indian agriculture, addressing both environmental concerns and the unique needs of smaller-scale farming operations.

Agriculture and the Role of Tractors

Agriculture is the backbone of India's economy, employing nearly 55% of its population and significantly contributing to the country's GDP. Tractors play a pivotal role in increasing agricultural productivity through mechanization. Over the years, the Indian tractor industry has witnessed substantial growth in production capacity and technology, with CSIR-CMERI playing a pivotal role in this journey.

The Shift Towards Electrification

Traditionally, tractors run on diesel, contributing significantly to environmental pollution. They consume about 7.4% of India's annual diesel usage and account for 60% of total agricultural fuel consumption. Furthermore, their emissions of PM2.5 and NOx are projected to increase substantially in the coming decades.

In alignment with global efforts to reduce carbon footprints, India has committed to reducing projected carbon emissions by one billion tonnes by 2030 and achieving Net Zero carbon emissions by 2070. Electrifying the tractor sector is a crucial step towards attaining these ambitious targets.

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The CSIR PRIMA ET11: An Electric Solution for Small Farmers

To address the challenge of sustainability and serve the needs of small and marginal farmers, CSIR-CMERI has developed the CSIR PRIMA ET11, a compact 100% electric tractor with numerous groundbreaking features:

1. Indigenous Components: The entire tractor is designed and manufactured using indigenous components and technologies.

2. Farm-Focused Design: The tractor's design prioritizes dynamics, weight distribution, transmission engagements, and ergonomics to suit the demands of agricultural field applications.

3. Women-Friendly: Special attention has been given to ergonomics, making it more accessible for women farmers by incorporating electronic switches for ease of operation.

4. Quick Charging: The tractor can be charged using a conventional home socket in 7 to 8 hours, providing more than 4 hours of field operation or 6 hours of normal haulage operation.

5. Efficient Transmission: Equipped with a semi-synchronized type gearing system, the tractor achieves the desired efficiency at a minimal cost.

6. Strong Hydraulics: The tractor boasts best-in-class hydraulics with a lifting capacity of 500 kg or more, enabling it to handle various implements for field and hauling operations.

7. Robust Design: Designed to withstand harsh conditions, the tractor is equipped with the necessary covers and guards to protect it from mud and water.

8. Advanced Battery: The CSIR PRIMA ET11 utilizes a state-of-the-art lithium-ion battery with deep discharge capability for farming applications and a lifespan of over 3000 cycles.

9. Agriculture-Centric Controls: The controller and instrument cluster have been tailored to suit agriculture requirements.

10. V2L Port: An innovative feature allows the tractor's battery power to be utilized for secondary applications like irrigation and pumps when not in operation.

A Bright Future for Sustainable Agriculture

Dr Jitendra Singh, Union Minister for Science and Technology, unveiled this pioneering electric tractor at a recent One Week One Lab curtain-raiser ceremony in New Delhi, attended by dignitaries including Secretary, DSIR Dr N Kalaiselvi. This groundbreaking technology has also been licensed to K N Bioscience, a Hyderabad-based company known for its Kushal Tractor brand and bioscience developments, with the aim of mass production and widespread adoption.

The CSIR PRIMA ET11 is poised to revolutionize Indian agriculture, offering a sustainable solution that caters to the needs of small and marginal farmers. This milestone development places India on the global stage with a visionary "Make for the World" approach, setting the tone for a more environmentally friendly and productive agricultural sector.

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